BACK in the 80s, tomatoes were such a prized commodity and farmers in Bundaberg were making so much money, they were rumoured to be smoking $50 bills. While things are a little more sedate these days, the optimism and innovation that prevailed in this Southern Great Barrier Reef region continues to flourish.

STRETCHING some 2300km long, the Great Barrier Reef is undeniably the destination darling of Queensland's tourism tale. And if you're searching for where reef royalty resides along the world's largest coral reef system, look no further than Bundaberg North Burnett. For it is not only here, that the Southern Great Barrier Reef begins, but where you will find Lady Elliot and Lady Musgrave Islands.

Still trying to escape the cold? Drive on up to sunny Bundaberg, the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, just 4 hours North of Brisbane. August is the perfect time to come see the curious Whales so pack up the motorhome and hit the road!